Dr. Christie-Joy Brodrick Hartman Executive Director, ISNW

Christie-Joy “C.J.” Brodrick Hartman is taking Madison beyond "green fads" with the formation of the university’s Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World. As executive director of the program, Hartman guides the ISNW in its mission to coordinate environmental stewardship efforts across campus, advocate clear priorities and challenge all members of the James Madison community to think critically about their role in achieving the long-term environmental stewardship of earth. It is an opportunity to truly support sustainability: human and ecological health, social justice, secure livelihoods and a better world for all generations. “The ISNW will challenge JMU citizens to embrace a broader sense of citizenship through environmental literacy, critical thinking and active environmental stewardship,” she says. Her passion for the future of our planet began as a child, spending time with her parents who were both educators: “My parents instilled in me a belief that we have an obligation to something much more than ourselves. … I knew I wanted to continue their contributions.” Hartman is convinced that the stewardship initiative can lead to both individual and institutional behavior changes. And she believes each of us needs to set the right example, going beyond green to pursue truly enlightened citizenship: "I use the campus shuttle, practice conservation, teach environmental issues courses, organize community service-learning projects, conduct applied research on alternative energy technologies and facilitate university-wide communication about stewardship."

"I have always been passionate about life, and I grew to recognize that includes both human and ecological life, which are inextricably linked."